The United States has issued a beach safety warning after the body of a former NCAA women's soccer star was discovered floating off the coast of San Diego. Bryn Waite, 26, was found Wednesday morning in the waters of La Jolla Shores Beach after a bystander spotted her and alerted authorities. She was pronounced dead at the scene, and the cause of death has not yet been determined.
Waite, originally from Anchorage, Alaska, played Division 2 women's soccer at Central Washington University during the 2018 and 2019 seasons. Known among teammates and coaches for her vibrant spirit, she is being remembered as a young athlete with a beautiful soul. Her sudden death has sent shockwaves through the college soccer community.
This tragedy is not isolated. Waite is the second former NCAA athlete found dead in San Diego beach waters in recent months. Summer Nash, 34, a former volleyball player for San Diego State University and Florida International University who later coached at several programs, was also discovered floating in the ocean. These back-to-back incidents have prompted federal and local authorities to issue urgent reminders about ocean safety.
In response, the U.S. has released a set of critical beach safety tips that apply to everyone, regardless of swimming ability. The guidelines emphasize always swimming in lifeguarded areas, never swimming alone, and staying within one's fitness and swimming capabilities. They also warn beachgoers to be aware of changing tides, fast-moving currents and waves (even in shallow water), and unexpected drop-offs that can alter water depth suddenly.
Other hazards include underwater obstacles, rocks, debris, vegetation, marine animals, and the activities of other people in the water, such as boating. The warning also stresses the importance of heeding weather conditions and leaving the water immediately if thunder or lightning is present. For those in boats, the advice is to head back to shore as quickly as possible or, if that's not feasible, to lie down in the bottom of the boat or shelter in the cabin.
The string of ocean deaths this year has raised concerns about late-night swimming and venturing out during dangerous conditions. Waite's death echoes the tragic accident that took the life of an NC State legend earlier this year, underscoring how quickly fun can turn to tragedy. While the exact circumstances surrounding Waite's death remain under investigation, the broader message from officials is clear: respect the ocean's power at all times.
As the sports world mourns the loss of another promising young athlete, the hope is that these warnings will prevent further heartbreak. Waite's legacy, however, will not be defined by her death but by the joy she brought to the field and the lives she touched. Her former teammates have described her as someone who always lifted others up, a testament to the kind of person she was both on and off the pitch.
For now, the focus remains on keeping beachgoers safe. The U.S. warning serves as a somber reminder that even the strongest swimmers must respect the sea. As investigations continue, Waite's family has asked for privacy while they process this devastating loss.
